Name: No Bake Matcha Tiramisu
Prep time: 20 min
Total time: 260 min
Ingredients: 1.5 cups heavy whipping cream (cold); 8 oz mascarpone cheese (room temperature); 0.5 cup granulated sugar; 1 tsp vanilla extract; 2 tbsp matcha powder (plus extra for dusting); 0.75 cup warm water; 24-30 ladyfinger cookies

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If you love classic tiramisu but want something lighter, greener, and slightly more modern, this No Bake Matcha Tiramisu Recipe is about to become your new favorite dessert. Combining the creamy richness of Italian tiramisu with the earthy elegance of Japanese green tea, this dessert is the perfect fusion of flavors — no oven required.

This easy matcha tiramisu is silky, lightly sweet, and layered with delicate ladyfingers soaked in vibrant green tea instead of coffee. It’s a refreshing twist that works beautifully for spring gatherings, summer dinners, afternoon tea, or whenever you want something impressive without complicated steps.

Let’s dive into this stunning no bake matcha dessert that’s as beautiful as it is delicious.

What Is Matcha Tiramisu?

Traditional tiramisu originated in Italy and typically features espresso-soaked ladyfingers layered with mascarpone cream and cocoa powder. In this version, we swap coffee for high-quality matcha powder — finely ground green tea leaves commonly used in Japanese tea ceremonies.

The result? A green tea tiramisu recipe that’s creamy and luxurious but slightly earthy, fresh, and balanced. The bitterness of matcha cuts through the richness of mascarpone, creating a dessert that feels lighter and more refined.

This Japanese Italian fusion dessert is not overly sweet, making it perfect for adults who prefer sophisticated flavor profiles.

Why You’ll Love This No Bake Matcha Dessert

There are so many reasons to fall in love with this easy matcha tiramisu:

No oven required
Ready with simple ingredients
Beautiful vibrant green color
Perfect make-ahead dessert
Elegant enough for entertaining
Light yet indulgent texture

Because it’s a no bake dessert, it’s ideal for warm weather or busy days when you don’t want to turn on the oven.

Ingredients

Here’s everything you need to make this matcha tiramisu from scratch:

1 ½ cups heavy whipping cream (cold)
8 oz mascarpone cheese (room temperature)
½ cup granulated sugar
1 tsp vanilla extract
2 tbsp high-quality matcha powder (plus extra for dusting)
¾ cup warm water (not boiling)
24–30 ladyfinger cookies (savoiardi)

Ingredient Notes & Tips

Matcha Powder:
Use culinary or ceremonial grade matcha for best color and flavor. Cheap matcha can taste bitter and dull in color.

Mascarpone Cheese:
Allow it to sit at room temperature for 15–20 minutes before mixing. This prevents lumps.

Ladyfingers:
Dip quickly! Over-soaking will make them too soft and mushy.

Instructions

In a small bowl, whisk matcha powder with warm water until smooth and fully dissolved. Set aside to cool.
In a large mixing bowl, whip cold heavy cream using a hand mixer until soft peaks form.
In a separate bowl, beat mascarpone cheese, sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy.
Gently fold the whipped cream into the mascarpone mixture until fully combined. Do not overmix.
Quickly dip each ladyfinger into the cooled matcha mixture (about 1–2 seconds per side).
Arrange a single layer of soaked ladyfingers in the bottom of a serving dish.
Spread half of the mascarpone cream mixture evenly over the ladyfingers.
Repeat with another layer of dipped ladyfingers.
Spread the remaining cream mixture on top and smooth the surface.
Cover and refrigerate for at least 240 minutes (4 hours) to allow layers to set.
Before serving, dust the top generously with matcha powder using a fine sieve.

Tips for the Perfect Easy Matcha Tiramisu

1. Chill Time Is Key

Refrigeration allows the flavors to meld and the texture to set properly. Overnight chilling produces the best results.

2. Use Gentle Folding

Folding whipped cream carefully ensures a light, airy texture.

3. Dust Matcha Right Before Serving

Matcha can darken when exposed to moisture. For a vibrant green finish, dust just before serving.

Flavor Variations

Want to customize your green tea tiramisu recipe? Try these ideas:

White Chocolate Matcha Tiramisu

Add ½ cup melted and cooled white chocolate to the mascarpone mixture for extra sweetness.

Strawberry Matcha Tiramisu

Layer thinly sliced strawberries between the mascarpone layers for a fruity twist.

Coconut Matcha Version

Replace half the heavy cream with coconut cream for a tropical flavor.

Serving Suggestions

This no bake matcha dessert pairs beautifully with:

Fresh berries
A cup of green tea
Light sparkling water
Almond biscotti

Serve in:

A large glass dish for gatherings
Individual cups for elegant plating
Mason jars for casual parties

Cultural Inspiration: Italian Meets Japanese

Tiramisu is one of Italy’s most iconic desserts. Matcha, on the other hand, has deep roots in Japanese tea culture. Combining these two culinary traditions creates something truly special.

Matcha symbolizes calmness and mindfulness, while tiramisu translates to “pick me up.” Together, they create a dessert that feels both comforting and uplifting.

This Japanese Italian fusion dessert beautifully represents how global flavors can blend seamlessly.

Storage Tips

Store covered in refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Do not freeze (texture may separate).
Dust fresh matcha before each serving if storing leftovers.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes! In fact, it’s better when made at least 4 hours in advance.

Can I make it less sweet?

Reduce sugar to ⅓ cup for a more pronounced matcha flavor.

Is this dessert kid-friendly?

Yes, since it contains no alcohol or coffee.

Final Thoughts

This No Bake Matcha Tiramisu Recipe is proof that simple ingredients can create extraordinary results. It’s creamy, elegant, visually stunning, and surprisingly easy to make.

Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or treating yourself to a refined dessert, this easy matcha tiramisu delivers balanced flavor, smooth texture, and impressive presentation every time.

Once you try this no bake matcha dessert, you may never go back to the classic version again.